Carbohydrate Absorption Research Articles

Design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel substituted imidazo[1,2-c]quinazoline derivatives as potential α-glucosidase inhibitors with bioactivity and molecular docking insights.

α-Glucosidase inhibitors are important in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels and reducing carbohydrate absorption. The present study focuses on identifying new inhibitors bearing imidazo[1,2-c]quinazoline backbone through multi-step synthesis. The inhibitory potencies of the novel derivatives were tested against Saccharomyces cerevisiae α-glucosidase, revealing IC50 values ranging from 50.0 ± 0.12 µM to 268.25 ± 0.09 µM. Among them, 2-(4-(((2,3-diphenylimidazo[1,2-c]quinazolin-5-yl)thio)methyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)-N-(2-methoxyphenyl)acetamide (19e) and 2-(4-((benzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-c]quinazolin-6-ylthio)methyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)-N-(2-methoxyphenyl)acetamide (27e) emerged as the most potent inhibitors and were further investigated in various assessments. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed to reveal the crucial binding interactions and to confirm the results obtained from structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis.

Effects of high-protein feeds on growth, free amino acid metabolism and protein metabolism-related genes in larvae and juveniles of rice flower carp (Procypris merus)

The effect of dietary protein on fish is widely studied. However, the high-protein diet effects and mechanisms on growth and amino acid metabolism in Procypris merus remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of dietary protein levels (38 %, 44 %, 50 %) on the growth performance and amino acid contents in larvae and juveniles of P. merus. Transcriptome sequencing was used to study the adaptation mechanism of P. merus to a high-protein diet. The final length, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency ratio were remarkably decreased with increasing dietary protein levels, while the amino acid content of the body was significantly increased. In addition, 370,513,858 reads were obtained and assembled into 278,939 unigenes, with an average length of 559 bp. KEGG analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in protein digestion and absorption, carbohydrate digestion and absorption, starch and sucrose metabolism, and pancreatic secretion. Moreover, high-protein increased the expression of genes involved in trypsin (prss, ctrl, cpa, cpb), peptide transporter (pept), amino acid transporter (b0at1), and gluconeogenesis (g6pase), which could digest and absorb the dietary protein, and converse amino acids into energy, resulting in adaption to a high-protein diet.

GnRH Immunocastration in Male Xizang Sheep: Impacts on Rumen Microbiome and Metabolite Profiles for Enhanced Health and Productivity.

Castration is a prevalent and indispensable practice in sheep husbandry, aiding in enhancing meat quality, mitigating aggressive behavior, and managing unwanted reproduction. Nevertheless, the conventional surgical castration procedure poses several challenges, including heightened stress and pain, detrimental impacts on animal welfare, and diminished economic efficacy in farming operations. Consequently, immunocastration methods, serving as substitutes for surgical castration, are progressively finding application in livestock. The rumen, an essential and distinctive digestive and absorptive organ in ruminants, has been associated with enhanced meat quality and productive performance following castration in previous research studies, albeit fewer investigations have explored the potential impacts of GnRH immunization on the rumen's internal milieu in sheep post-de-escalation. Hence, the present study delved into evaluating the impact of GnRH immunocastration on the rumen microbiome and metabolomics in male Xizang sheep. This was achieved through the establishment of a GnRH immunocastration animal model and the collection of rumen fluid for microbiological and comprehensive metabolomics investigations. The outcomes of this investigation unveiled that the impact of GnRH immunocastration on body weight gain was more pronounced during the achievement of the castration objective. In addition, the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidota ratio in the immune male (IM) group exceeded that of the control group (EM), suggesting that GnRH immunodeficiency may enhance the digestion and absorption of feed in male Xizang sheep. At the taxonomic level, the elevated presence of Prevotella and Quinella bacteria in the IM group compared to the EM group indicated that castration influenced a segment of the rumen microbiota in male Xizang sheep, thereby bolstering the digestive and metabolic efficacy of the rumen concerning nutrient utilization, particularly in the breakdown and absorption of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, ultimately expediting the fattening process and weight gain in male Xizang sheep following castration. Moreover, analysis of ruminal fluid metabolomics revealed that GnRH immunization had notable impacts on certain metabolites in the ruminal fluid of male Xizang sheep, with metabolites like 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid and 3-hydroxyindole acetic acid showing significant downregulation in the IM group compared to the EM group, while niacin and tyramine exhibited significant upregulation. These findings indicate a profound influence of GnRH immunization on the maintenance of ruminal equilibrium and ruminal health (including the health of ruminal epithelial cells). This study validates that GnRH immunocastration not only achieves the objectives of castration but also enhances ruminal health in male Xizang sheep, thus laying a foundational theoretical basis for the application and dissemination of GnRH immunocastration technology.

Dietary thiamine enhances thiamine transport, carbohydrate absorption, glycolysis, and antioxidant properties in Macrobrachium nipponense when fed a high-carbohydrate diet

Thiamine serves as a cofactor of key enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, and its regulatory role in high-carbohydrate diet has not been reported in crustaceans. In this study, six types of isonitrogen and isolipid diets were formulated at two carbohydrate levels (15 % corn starch for the low-carbohydrate group; 30 % corn starch for the high-carbohydrate group) and three concentrations of thiamine (0, 80 and 160 mg/kg) in Macrobrachium nipponense. The carbohydrate metabolism, antioxidant status, and mRNA expression of genes involved in thiamine transport and autophagy of prawns were investigated. The high-carbohydrate diet supplemented with 160 mg/kg thiamine increased the thiamine transporter 1 (SLC19A2) expression compared to a low-carbohydrate diet or other thiamine concentrations. Supplementation with 160 mg/kg thiamine under a high carbohydrate level significantly increased the pyruvate and lactate content in the hepatopancreas. When supplemented with either 0 or 160 mg/kg thiamine, a high dietary carbohydrate significantly increased glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and hexokinase (HK) mRNA expressions compared to a low-carbohydrate diet. Among the high-carbohydrate groups, prawns fed with 160 mg/kg thiamine showed significantly higher mRNA expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase-E1-α (PDH-E1-α) compared to those fed with 0 mg/kg thiamine. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was found to be highest in prawns fed 160 mg/kg thiamine. Supplementation of the carbohydrate diet with either 80 or 160 mg/kg thiamine led to a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) content accompanied by a significant decrease in glutathione (GSH) level, regardless of low or high carbohydrate levels. The unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1) mRNA expression was markedly influenced by both carbohydrate levels and thiamine concentration. Hence, the administration of 160 mg/kg thiamine can improve the thiamine transport, carbohydrate absorption, glycolysis and the antioxidant properties of M. nipponense when fed a high-carbohydrate diet.

Increased oral intake and improved energy and carbohydrate absorption at 48 weeks with apraglutide in short bowel syndrome with intestinal failure (SBS-IF) and colon-in-continuity (CIC)

Increased oral intake and improved energy and carbohydrate absorption at 48 weeks with apraglutide in short bowel syndrome with intestinal failure (SBS-IF) and colon-in-continuity (CIC)

Efficacy and safety of apraglutide in short bowel syndrome with intestinal failure and colon–in–continuity: A multicenter, open-label, metabolic balance study

BackgroundApraglutide is a novel long-acting GLP-2 analog in development for short bowel syndrome with intestinal failure (SBS-IF). This multicenter, open-label, phase 2 study in SBS-IF and colon-in-continuity (CiC) investigates the safety and efficacy of apraglutide. MethodsThis was a 52-week phase 2 metabolic balance study (MBS) in 9 adult patients with SBS-IF-CiC receiving once-weekly subcutaneous apraglutide injections. Safety was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included changes in absorption parameters (MBS at baseline, after 4 weeks with stable parenteral support (PS), and 48 weeks), PS needs (48-week PS adjustment period based on monthly 48-hour fluid balances) and intestinal morphology and motility (static and cine MRI at baseline and 4, 24 and 48 weeks). ResultsPS volume decreased by -4702mL/week (-52%; p<0.001) at week 52. Seven patients (78%) achieved ≥1 day off PS at week 52. At 4 weeks, fecal output was reduced by 253 g/day (p=0.013). At 48 weeks, increases in wet weight absorption by 316 g/day (p=0.039), energy absorption by 1134 kJ/day (p=0.041) and carbohydrate absorption by 56.1 g/day (p= 0.024) were observed. Moreover, small bowel length increased from 29.7 to 40.7 cm (p=0.012), duodenal wall thickness increased by 0.8 mm (p=0.02) and motility in the proximal colon was reduced (p=0.031). A total of 127 adverse events was reported, which were mostly mild to moderate. ConclusionApraglutide had an acceptable safety profile and was associated with significant reductions in PS needs and days off PS, improvements in intestinal absorption, and structural and functional intestinal changes in patients with SBS-IF-CiC.ClinicalTrials.gov, Number NCT04964986

Polyphenols in foods: a potential strategy for preventing and managing the postprandial hyperglycemic response.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant health risk worldwide, and effective management strategies are needed. Polyphenols exhibit diverse biological functions, are abundant in various plants, and influence carbohydrate digestion and absorption. This review provides a comprehensive overview of clinical evidence regarding the relationship between dietary polyphenols and the postprandial hyperglycemic response. Human intervention studies have demonstrated the benefits of polyphenol-rich foods in improving glucose and insulin metabolism, underscoring their role in preventing T2DM. These findings highlight the potential of polyphenol-rich foods for managing hyperglycemia and mitigating T2DM risk and provide insight into effective dietary strategies for glycemic control and overall health.

Effectiveness of Earthworm Extract on the Lipid Profile of Diabetic Wistar Rats

Various metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, are characterized by hyperglycemia, stemming from decreased insulin action, secretion, or both. The use of chemical medicines for diabetes mellitus, especially acarbose, involves regulating the digestion and absorption of complex carbohydrates. However, acarbose may disrupt liver function, prompting exploration into alternative sources for treatment, such as earthworm extract. The purpose of this study was to identify the effectiveness of ethanol extract and coelomic fluid from earthworms (E. eugeniae) on the lipid profile of male diabetic wistar rats (R. norvegicus) in vivo. The research hypothesis is that earthworm extracts could effectively lower the lipid profile of diabetic Wistar rats. This research is experimental research with pre-test and post-test control study group design, using an in vivo method. The results of the one-way ANOVA test of HDL were p=0.441; p=0.441; p=0.000; for LDL were p=0.691; p=0.101; p=0.049; for total cholesterol were p=0.107; p=0.347; p=0.486; and for triglycerides were p=0.028; p=0.926; p=0.553 on days 0, 7, and 14, respectively. Based on the research data, both ethanol extract and a combination of ethanol extract and coelomic fluid were able to reduce lipid profile levels on the 7th and 14th days. Earthworm extract has the potential to promote repair of β cells and is anti-inflammatory which can be used to reduce lipid profile levels.

Hydrogen breath test as a diagnostic tool

Introduction and Purpose: Hydrogen breath tests serve the crucial purpose of evaluating the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, particularly when carbohydrates are not properly absorbed, leading to bacterial overgrowth. These tests are non-invasive, cost-effective, and widely accessible diagnostic tools used to assess various gastrointestinal disorders. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness and methodology of Hydrogen breath testing (HBT). State of knowledge: The disposal of hydrogen gas is essential for maintaining efficient microbial fermentation processes in the gut. Hydrogenotrophic microbes, including acetogens, methanogenic archaea, and sulfate-reducing bacteria, are responsible for this process. Hydrogen breath tests, conducted with substrates like glucose and lactulose, aid in diagnosing conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), lactose and fructose intolerance, and other carbohydrate absorption disorders. These tests generate a large volume of data, which can be analyzed using data mining techniques to uncover new hypotheses. Conclusions: Hydrogen breath tests, using various substrates, are effective in diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders such as SIBO and carbohydrate malabsorption. They offer valuable insights into microbial processes in the gut and can inform individualized treatment strategies. However, careful consideration of contraindications and proper test administration protocols is essential for accurate diagnosis and interpretation of results.

Metabolite Diversity and Carbohydrate Distribution in Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis L. Cultivars: A UPLC-MS/MS Approach.

Pak choi exhibits a wide range of phenotypic and morphological variations, significantly impacting its carbohydrate composition. This study aimed to analyze these variations by employing UPLC-MS/MS technology on eight biological replicates of seven Pak choi cultivars. The untargeted metabolic analysis identified 513 metabolites, focusing on 16 key carbohydrates, including monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. Monosaccharides were the most prevalent, which were followed by di-, poly-, and oligosaccharides. Suzhouqing had the highest number of differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), while Xiangqingcai had the least. Notably, the cultivars Xiangqingcai, Suzhouqing, and Aijiaohuang showed significant metabolite differentiation. The study found 114 metabolites that differed significantly between Suzhouqing and Aijiaohuang, of which 69 were upregulated and 45 were downregulated. In Xiangqingcai and Aijiaohuang, 66 metabolites were upregulated and 49 were downregulated. Between Xiangqingcai and Suzhouqing, 80 metabolites were downregulated and 53 were upregulated. Key carbohydrate digestion and absorption pathways were identified alongside the most enriched flavonoid biosynthesis pathway in Xiangqingcai and Suzhouqing. The findings highlight the considerable carbohydrate variation among Pak choi cultivars, providing valuable insights for targeted carbohydrate extraction and improving nutritional and agricultural practices.

Purification and Characterization of Proteinaceous Thermostable α-Amylase Inhibitor from Sardinian Common Bean Nieddone Cultivar (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).

The increasing need for new treatments for obesity and diabetes has led to the development of new drugs and food supplements that could reduce carbohydrate absorption. Many starch blockers, based on common bean proteinaceous inhibitors against α-amylase (α-AI), are already present on the market. The extraction and purification of α-amylase inhibitor from a promising common bean cultivar from Sardinia (Nieddone) is described, highlighting the unique value of the Nieddone cultivar, particularly for its inhibitory activity on digestive enzymes and its complete lack of a hemagglutination effect on human red blood cells. The purification of α-AI involved two chromatographic steps (IEC and SEC) and was essential for revealing certain properties of the inhibitor. The purified inhibitor has a tetrameric structure (α2β2) and a molecular weight of approximately 42 kDa, as determined by SEC and SDS-PAGE, confirming it as a lectin-like inhibitor. The identification of the α-AI sequence was obtained by bottom-up high-resolution mass spectrometry, which allowed us to identify a unique peptide from the α chain and six unique peptides from the β chains. α-AI exhibited an optimum temperature of around 40 °C and two pH optima at 5 and 6.5, respectively. Its remarkable stability at high temperatures was measured (approximately 25% of activity retained even after 5 h at 100 °C), whereas the raw extract lost its activity entirely after just 10 min at 90 °C. Thus, the purification process significantly enhances the thermal stability of α-AI. The demonstrated effectiveness of the purified α-AI against the α-amylase enzyme in pigs, humans and insects underscores the protein's potential for treating obesity and diabetes, as well as for managing insect pests.

Variation in bile acid synthesis capacity: A key factor leading to different lipid deposition patterns in goldfish breeds

In our previous study, we observed distinct lipid deposition pattern between Crane-top red goldfish (HDH) and Pearl-scale goldfish (PS), yet the regulatory mechanisms remained unclear. In this study, a comprehensive comparison between HDH and PS was conducted to elucidate the mechanisms driving this difference. Our findings revealed that the hepatopancreas lipid content, as well as the levels of triglyceride and total cholesterol, were significantly higher in HDH than in PS. Conversely, the total bile acid level was significantly higher in PS than in HDH. Transcriptome and proteome analysis identified 3174 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 816 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between HDH and PS, respectively, which were primarily enriched in pathways associated with PPAR signaling, primary bile acid biosynthesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, taurine metabolism, and carbohydrate digestion and absorption. Notably, DEGs and DEPs related to bile acid synthesis were found to play a key role in the observed difference between HDH and PS. Specifically, the CYP27A1 gene and EBP, MSMO1, CYP7B1, and HSD3B7 proteins were up-regulated in PS goldfish, indicating an enhanced bile acid synthesis capacity. Additionally, the abundance of intestinal Cetobacterium, which is closely associated with host lipid deposition, was significantly higher in PS intestine than in HDH.

Clostridium sporogenes increases fat accumulation in mice by enhancing energy absorption and adipogenesis.

The Clostridia clusters have been implicated in energy metabolism, the specific species and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This present study is the first to report Clostridium sporogenes is able to affect fat accumulation and glycolipid metabolism. We indicated that gavage of C. sporogenes promoted the adipogenesis and fat accumulation in mice by not only increasing the abundance of Clostridium bacteria but by also enhancing the metabolic absorption of carbohydrates and fatty acids significantly. Obviously, changes of gut microbiota caused by the C. sporogenes, especially the significant increase of Clostridium bacteria, contributed to the fat accumulation of mice. In addition, the enhancement of Clostridium genus bacteria remarkably improved the synthesis of hepatic pyruvate, acetyl-CoA, and triglyceride levels, as well as reduced the excretion of fecal carbohydrates, short-chain fatty acids, and free fatty acids remarkably. These findings will help us to understand the relationship of specific bacteria and host energy homeostasis.

Effects of dietary vitamin D3 and carbohydrate levels on growth performance, carbohydrate metabolism, and intestinal health of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco)

The study was performed to determine effects of vitamin D3 (VD3) and carbohydrate levels in the diets on growth, carbohydrate absorption and metabolism, and intestinal health of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco). Four groups of yellow catfish with an average weight of 4.12 ± 0.00 g were provided with diets containing varying proportions of VD3 and carbohydrate. These diets included two VD3 levels at 1000 IU/kg (basic VD3) and 16,100 IU/kg diet (high VD3), each containing carbohydrate levels of 25% and 35%, respectively. After analyzing dietary VD3 and carbohydrate contents, these groups were labeled as follows: the control (30.78% carbohydrates +1040 IU/kg), the VD3 group (30.67% carbohydrates +16,041 IU/kg), the high-carbohydrate group (HCD group, 39.65% carbohydrates +1017 IU/kg), and the HCD + VD3 group (39.67% carbohydrates +16,061 IU/kg). Each tank consisted of three replicates, with each replicate containing 30 fish. The experiment continued for 10 weeks. Compared with the control, HCD group reduced growth performance, the muscular layer thickness, the zonulae occludentes1 and 3 (zo1, zo3), junctional adhesion molecules 3a (jam3a), claudin1, occludin, phosphoglucomutase 1 (pgm1) mRNA expression, but increased intestinal villi height, glycogen content, glycogen synthase (gs), glycogen branching enzyme (gbe), sodium/glucose cotransporter 1 and 2 (sglt1, sglt2) and glucose transporter 2 (glut2) mRNA expression, solute carrier family 5 member 1 (SGLT1) protein expression, and dietary VD3 group alleviated HCD-induced variations of these indices mentioned above. Compared to the control, HCD group significantly suppressed pyruvate carboxylase b (pcxb), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (pepck), interleukin10 (il10), NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2 (nrf2), superoxide dismutase 2 (sod2) and catalase 1 (cat1) mRNA expression, and also inhibited the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), but increased hexokinase 1 (hk1), glucokinase (gk), 1-phosphofructokinase (pfkb), interleukin 1β (il1β), interleukin 6 (il6), tumor necrosis factor a and β (tnfa, tnfβ) mRNA expression, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content; dietary VD3 group further suppressed gluconeogenic genes (pcxb, pepck) expression, but significantly enhanced the expression of glycolytic genes (hk1, gk, pfkp). Dietary VD3 also alleviated HCD-induced variations of these indices involved in antioxidant and inflammatory responses in yellow catfish intestine. Based on these results, our study indicated that dietary VD3 contributed to alleviate HCD-induced adverse effects on intestinal carbohydrate utilization and health. Our study also elucidated the innovative insights into the interaction of HCD and VD3 in fish, and provided the potential strategies for improving dietary carbohydrate utilization of fish via VD3 addition in aquafeeds. These findings can potentially contribute to cost savings for businesses and serve as a reference for optimizing feed formulations.

Exploring the nutraceutical potential: Evaluating the nutritional and bioactive functions of five pomelo fruit varieties in Bangladesh

Pomelo (Citrus maxima), the largest citrus fruit, provides a variety of nutrients that have several health benefits, including antioxidant and antidiabetic functions. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing cellular damage. On the other hand, antidiabetic properties involve mechanisms such as enhancing insulin secretion, improving insulin sensitivity, inhibiting carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and regulating glucose metabolism. However, there is a lack of data on the comparative analysis of the physicochemical composition, bioactive properties, and antidiabetic effects of pomelo fruits grown in Bangladesh. To address this issue, the most common and popular high-yielding five cultivars of pomelo fruits grown in Bangladesh including LOCAL, BARI-2 (BARI: Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Batabi Lebu-2), BARI-3, BARI-4, and BARI-6 were evaluated concerning proximate, minerals, and physicochemical properties with their antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. Research has revealed that all pomelo varieties contained a significant amount of proximate compositions and major minerals (Ca, Mg, K, Na, and Fe). The highest juice yield (75.37 ± 0.33 %), vitamin C content (79.56 ± 2.26 mg/100 mL of fresh juice), and carotenoid content (919.33 ± 0.62 μM β-Carotene Equivalent/g DM) were found in BARI-3 pomelo fruit and adhered to the sequence (p < 0.05): BARI-3 > LOCAL > BARI-4 > BARI-6 > BARI-2; BARI-3 > LOCAL > BARI-2 > BARI-4 > BARI-6, and BARI-3 > BARI-2 > BARI-6 > LOCAL > BARI-4, respectively. The anthocyanin content and inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase were found to be at their peak in the BARI-2 pomelo variety and the values were 50.65 ± 2.27 μg cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalents/100 g DM and 85.57 ± 0.00 μM acarbose equivalents/g DM, respectively. BARI-3 pomelo variety showed highest DPPH antioxidant capacity (170.47 ± 0.01 μM Trolox equivalents/g DM), while the BARI-6 pomelo variety exhibited the highest total phenolic content (6712.30 ± 1.84 μg gallic acid equivalents/g DM), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power activity (183.16 ± 0.01 μM Fe(II) equivalents/g DM). Therefore, this study explores the nutritional value and bioactivity of five popular pomelo varieties in Bangladesh, offering valuable insights for utilizing high-value citrus resources and understanding their health-promoting functions.

Reduction of specific enterocytes from loss of intestinal LGR4 improves lipid metabolism in mice

Whether intestinal Leucine-rich repeat containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) impacts nutrition absorption and energy homeostasis remains unknown. Here, we report that deficiency of Lgr4 (Lgr4iKO) in intestinal epithelium decreased the proportion of enterocytes selective for long-chain fatty acid absorption, leading to reduction in lipid absorption and subsequent improvement in lipid and glucose metabolism. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrates the heterogeneity of absorptive enterocytes, with a decrease in enterocytes selective for long-chain fatty acid-absorption and an increase in enterocytes selective for carbohydrate absorption in Lgr4iKO mice. Activation of Notch signaling and concurrent inhibition of Wnt signaling are observed in the transgenes. Associated with these alterations is the substantial reduction in lipid absorption. Decrement in lipid absorption renders Lgr4iKO mice resistant to high fat diet-induced obesity relevant to wild type littermates. Our study thus suggests that targeting intestinal LGR4 is a potential strategy for the intervention of obesity and liver steatosis.

Comparative physiological and transcriptomic analysis of sono-biochemical control over post-acidification of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus

Thermosonication (UT) prestress treatments combining with varied fermentation patterns has been revealed as an effective method to regulate post-acidification as exerted by Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (L. delbrueckii), but sono-biochemical controlling mechanisms remain elusive. This study employed physiological and transcriptomic analysis to explore the response mechanism of L. delbrueckii to UT-induced microstress (600 W, 33 kHz, 10 min). UT stress-induced inhibition of acidification of L. delbrueckii during (post)-fermentation was first confirmed, relying on the UT process parameters such as stress exposure duration and UT power. The significantly enhanced membrane permeability in cells treated by 600 W for 10 min than the microbes stressed by 420 W for 20 min suggested the higher dependence of UT-derived stresses on the treatment durations, relative to the ultrasonic powers. In addition, ultrasonication treatment-induced changes in cell membrane integrity enhanced and/or disrupted permeability of L. delbrueckii, resulting in an imbalance in intracellular conditions associated with corresponding alterations in metabolic behaviors and fermentation efficiencies. UT-prestressed inoculum exhibited a 21.46% decrease in the membrane potential during the lag phase compared to untreated samples, with an intracellular pH of 5.68 ± 0.12, attributed to the lower activities of H+-ATPase and lactate dehydrogenase due to UT stress pretreatments. Comparative transcriptomic analysis revealed that UT prestress influenced the genes related to glycolysis, pyruvate metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, and ABC transport. The genes encoding 3-oxoacyl-[acyl-carrier-protein] reductases I, II, and III, CoA carboxylase, lactate dehydrogenase, pyruvate oxidase, glucose-6-phosphate isomerase, and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase were downregulated, thus identifying the relevance of the UT microstresses-downregulated absorption and utilization of carbohydrates with the attenuated fatty acid production and energy metabolisms. These findings could contribute to provide a better understanding of the inactivated effects on the post-acidification of L. delbrueckii by ultrasonic pretreatments, thus providing theoretical basis for the targeted optimization of acidification inhibition efficiencies for yogurt products during chilled preservation processes.

Evaluation of the effects of dietary cinnamaldehyde on growth and nutrient use in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Cinnamaldehyde is an active organic compound and an aromatic aldehyde substance found in cinnamon oil. It is a new feed supplement for animals that can improve growth, nutrient digestion and absorption, lipid use, and immunity. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary trans-cinnamaldehyde 98 % (CIN) on nutrient utilization, antioxidant capacity, and growth performance in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Juveniles used was weighing at about 19.77 ± 0.10 g received dietary CIN at different doses (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 g/kg feed). The fish were maintained in a glass aquarium of 95 × 45 × 35 cm3 in size at a stocking density of 20 fish per aquarium and fed three times a day to clear satiation. Dietary carbohydrate digestion and absorption were significantly improved in fish fed 0.75 g/kg CIN, as indicated by increased amylase activity and glucose tolerance test. The latter was subsequently confirmed by increases in relative ir, glut4, hx and gs expression that indicated the increase in glucose absorption led to an increase in glucose utilization as an energy source and the synthesis of glycogen as an energy reserve. Interestingly, dietary CIN supplementation also resulted in the downregulation of fas, which facilitates the conversion of glucose to fatty acids, and the upregulation of cpt1a and hsl, indicating increased fatty acid oxidation for energy. CIN at a range of 0.5–0.75 g/kg improved the antioxidant status in the liver, as illustrated by elevated glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities (both P < 0.05). Final weight, feed consumption, the specific growth rate, feed efficiency, and protein retention increased were significantly in all CIN groups, with the highest values reached in the 0.5 g/kg CIN (all P < 0.05). Based on a polynomial orthogonal analysis of the fish-specific growth rate, the optimum dosage of CIN inclusion is 0.42 g/kg.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Potential of Mangifera indica Leaf in Streptozotocin-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Rats: Focus on Glycemic Control and Cholesterol Regulation

Mangifera indica (Anacardiaceae family) is renowned for its diverse pharmacological properties, encompassing antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study delves into the insulin-releasing and glucose-lowering potential of the ethanolic extract of Mangifera indica (EEMI) leaves in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic (STZ-T2D) rats, concurrently investigating its phytoconstituents. EEMI’s effects on insulin secretion were measured using BRIN BD11 β-cells and isolated mouse islets. Its enzymatic inhibitory properties on carbohydrate digestion, and absorption, and free radicals were investigated using in vitro methods. In vivo parameters including the lipid profile and liver glycogen content were assessed in STZ-T2D rats. EEMI exhibited a dose-dependent increase in insulin secretion from clonal pancreatic BRIN BD11 β-cells and isolated mouse islets. EEMI inhibited starch digestion, glucose diffusion over time, and DPPH activity in vitro. In acute in vivo studies, EEMI improved food intake and oral glucose tolerance. Moreover, following 28 days of treatment with EEMI, a remarkable amelioration in body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, liver glycogen content, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, and HDL levels was observed. Further phytochemical analysis with EEMI identified the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and flavonoids. The synergistic effects of EEMI, potentially attributable to naturally occurring phytoconstituents, hold promise for the development of enriched antidiabetic therapies, offering a promising avenue for the management of type 2 diabetes.

Investigating the effect of polyphenols from nuts on human carbohydrate digestion in vitro

Recent studies have documented the importance of postprandial hyperglycaemia in the incidence of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Inhibition of digestive enzymes, including membrane-bound brush-border α-glucosidases, leads to slowed carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and reduced postprandial glycemia. Nuts are widely eaten around the world and have the potential to inhibit α-glucosidases through their content of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. According to our recent systematic review(1), no study has investigated the inhibitory effects of nut extracts on human α-glucosidase activities. Almost all studies in this area have been conducted on yeast α-glucosidase, with only a few using rat α-glucosidase. While there is no sequence homology between yeast and human α-glucosidase, there is 74% to 78% sequence homology between rat and human α-glucosidases(1). The lack of studies on the effect of bioactive compounds from nuts on human α-glucosidases, along with the growing attention to nuts as an important component of a healthy diet with the potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases(2), highlights the need for research to evaluate the inhibitory effect of nut extracts on human α-glucosidases. The aim of the current study is to explore the inhibitory effect of extracts from nuts on human carbohydrate digestive enzymes. Walnuts and almonds were ground and defatted with hexane, extracted in 80% (v/v) acetone, and further purified using solid-phase extraction to obtain phenolic-rich extracts. The Folin–Ciocalteu assay was used to approximate the polyphenol content of the samples. Following our recently published detailed protocol(3), cell-free extracts from human intestinal Caco-2/TC7 cells were used as a source of α-glucosidase in enzyme inhibition assays, with sucrose, maltose and isomaltose as substrates and appropriate controls. The assay products were quantified using high-performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD). Glucose production in the presence of various concentrations of phenol-rich nut extracts was compared using a one-way ANOVA and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were calculated. The Folin–Ciocalteu data demonstrate that walnut extracts comprise a relatively high polyphenol content, with 18.1 ± 0.23 mg (epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG] equivalent) per gram of fresh weight, while almond extracts contain 0.87 ± 0.03 mg EGCG equivalent/g of fresh weight. The walnut phenolic-rich extract dose-dependently inhibited human intestinal sucrase and maltase activities (both p&lt;0.01), with IC50 values of 1.67 mg/mL and 2.84 mg/mL, respectively. We demonstrate that phenolic-rich walnut extracts can inhibit human α-glucosidases in vitro and therefore walnuts may contribute to slowing carbohydrate digestion in humans. As such, we plan to assess the effects of walnuts on postprandial glycaemia in vivo.